1. Allergen Awareness
When you are pregnant, some of your allergy triggers may change. For instance, before you became pregnant, you may have been able to care for a cat but now that you are pregnant, that cat may cause an allergy attack. Pay attention to the allergens that affect you now. Some possible allergens are dust, pet dander, smoke and mold. When possible, try to stay away from the things that trigger an allergy attack. Keep windows closed in the mornings if dust and pollen are triggers for you. This is when dust and pollen are at their highest levels during the day. Make sure that your pets are washed often and that someone else in the family brushes them daily to remove loose hair. Make sure to keep pets out of the bedroom at all times. Using a filtering vacuum will help to remove dander and dust from carpeting and furniture. Placing air purifiers around the house will also help to control allergens in the air.
2. Treat the Symptoms Safely
You can control the symptoms of allergies by using some methods that are approved for pregnant women. Using a saline nasal spray will help alleviate a stuffy nose. Placing a wet warm wash cloth across your head or sinuses can help alleviate pain. You can use over-the-counter eye drops to help with itchy eyes, or you can place a cool wet wash cloth on your eyes. Sucking on sugar-free candy or gargling warm salt water will help to alleviate a sore throat. If your allergies cause hives or itching, taking a cool bath with oatmeal in the water will help you to stop itching. Remember that a stuffy nose is common during pregnancy, so your stuffy nose may not be caused by allergies.
3. Monitor Your Medications
During pregnancy, allergies sometimes become severe. In this case, you should talk to your health care professional about over the counter and prescription medications that can help you. Very few medications are considered safe for use by pregnant women. In most cases, your practitioner will have you try other methods to control the symptoms of allergies before turning to medications. If you do have to take medications to control your allergies, make sure that you take the smallest dose possible and take it as little as possible. Keep in mind that most medications will cross the placenta so your baby will get a dose of whatever medications you take.
